In a landmark move for gender inclusivity in forest conservation, the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha inducted the state's first all-women anti-poaching squad into its regular enforcement team on Saturday. This pioneering initiative marks a significant shift in wildlife protection strategies, integrating local tribal women into the frontline defense against poachers and illegal activities.
Meet the Trailblazing Squad: From Forest Dwellers to Protectors
The newly formed unit comprises five dedicated women, four of whom come from tribal families living in villages nestled at the foothills of the Debrigarh sanctuary. Having grown up surrounded by these lush forests, they have witnessed the escalating pressures on wildlife firsthand, including the tragic electrocution of animals for crop protection and the worrying rise in cross-border wildlife trade between Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
The squad members are Anjali Topno from Christanpada village, Nabanita Rout, Aliva Kalo, Babita Bhue, and Alaka Pradhan. Selected for their unwavering commitment to forest preservation, these women underwent a rigorous three-month training program starting in October. Their training was conducted by experienced women frontline staff and ex-army officers.
Rigorous Training for Resilience
The intensive regimen prepared them for the challenges of jungle enforcement. It included daily running, extensive forest patrolling, and learning to use modern technological tools like camera traps and mobile patrol applications. Beyond surveillance, they were also trained in vital self-defense techniques and the operation of communication devices such as VHF sets and walkie-talkies.
Two members, Nabanita Rout and Aliva Kalo, who are already expert swimmers, received additional training in cruise driving. On the recommendation of Hirakud authorities, they are set to further hone this specialized skill in Bhadrak.
Empowerment and Environmental Stewardship
For the squad members, this role is more than a job; it's a source of empowerment and a chance to safeguard their natural heritage. "I feel honoured to be a part of this unit," said Anjali Topno. "I am now financially independent and can support my family. It's empowering to know that I am contributing to the protection of Debrigarh sanctuary and preserving it for future generations."
Officials emphasize that the induction is a major step toward inclusive conservation. Prem Kumar Jha, the principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife), highlighted the unique role women can play in community motivation. "In a human-dominated area like Debrigarh, women's participation in enforcement will inspire villagers to contribute to the sanctuary's protection," he stated.
Echoing this sentiment, Anshu Pragyan Das, the divisional forest officer of Hirakud, stressed the operational importance of the move. "As more than 50% of our frontline officers are women, having them in the squads will further safeguard wildlife. Enforcement and protection tasks require resilience and consistency, values that apply to both men and women," she explained.
A Fortress of Conservation Strengthens
The Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, which already employs around 150 enforcement personnel including 26 ex-army officers, is a long-standing bastion against wildlife crime. The integration of this skilled, locally-rooted women's squad is expected to enhance surveillance, deepen community ties, and set a powerful precedent for wildlife protection efforts across Odisha and beyond. This initiative proves that effective conservation is inherently linked with empowering the communities who call these forests home.
